What does imbibe mean?
Imbibe is a formal verb meaning to absorb or take in a liquid, particularly by drinking. It can also describe taking in ideas, knowledge, customs, or influences, often through sustained exposure: a reader may imbibe the atmosphere of an unfamiliar culture, while a student imbibes a particular tradition of thought. The word has a literary, elevated tone and is less common in everyday speech than absorb, drink, or learn. Its extended figurative uses are especially well established. In its literal sense, it can refer to soil or porous material taking in moisture, as well as a person drinking. Although imbibe and imbue can sound similar, their meanings differ: imbibe is chiefly about taking something in, whereas imbue means to fill or permeate something with a quality or influence.
verbTo absorb or take in a liquid, especially by drinking. By extension, to receive or absorb information, ideas, or influences.
- To absorb or take in a liquid, especially by drinking.
- To receive or absorb information, ideas, customs, or influences.
- To draw moisture or liquid into the pores or body.
"The dry soil quickly imbibe the rainwater."
"The cracked earth was able to imbibe only a little of the rain."
"Years spent reading widely allowed her to imbibe the literature of several cultures."
A sponge imbibe; a curious mind imbibes knowledge.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does imbibe come from?
Imbibe comes from the Latin verb imbibere, formed from in- (“into” or “in”) and bibere (“to drink”). The word entered English in the early 17th century and originally referred to drinking or absorbing liquid. Its figurative sense of receiving knowledge or influence developed from the idea of taking something in. It shares a root with beverage, bib, and other words connected with drinking.
Related word forms
How imbibe is actually used
Literary and formal. It is especially common in figurative contexts involving knowledge, culture, or influence, where it suggests absorption through exposure or experience.
Easily confused with imbibe
Imbibe means to absorb or take in, whereas imbue means to permeate or saturate something with a quality, idea, or influence.